Written Answers to WP's Oral Questions and Written Questions on 26 Sep 2025
REQUIREMENT FOR VERIFICATION OF ACCOUNT NUMBER AND ACCOUNTHOLDER NAME DURING FUND TRANSFERS
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) whether MAS requires banks to verify both account number and accountholder name when receiving or transmitting funds; and (b) if not, why not.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has been studying the experience of a few countries in implementing account number and name matching, and is reviewing possible approaches and solutions with the banking industry. Under our current system, if consumers have made an erroneous transfer, he or she should approach the bank, which will engage the recipient’s bank to inform the unintended recipient, to initiate a refund. If the unintended recipient refuses to return the funds or is unresponsive, the bank will advise the consumer on next steps to take which may include making a police report.
It is illegal for the recipient to retain the erroneous transfer. There is clear guidance and protocols in place to guide banks’ actions in such erroneous transfer situations. We urge consumers to be vigilant against demands for fund transfers from any person. Particularly, government officials will never ask members of the public to transfer money, disclose banking log-in details, install mobile apps from unofficial app stores or transfer calls to the Police. When unsure, do not proceed. To prevent erroneous transfers, consumers can adopt measures such as confirming the account number or Paynow details of the intended recipient before performing the transfer.
PRIORITISING GREEN MODES OF TRANSPORT IN TENGAH AND OTHER NEW TOWNS
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) how Tengah’s eight-lane roads and lack of bike paths is compatible with its vision to be a 'car-lite' district; (b) whether more can be done to ensure that green modes of transport are prioritised in Tengah and other new towns; and (c) if so, when will these actions be taken.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: As a car-lite town, Tengah residents will have access to public transport options as well as infrastructure that encourages walking and cycling. Today, the roads within Tengah Town are planned with bus lanes on both sides of the road to ensure priority for buses, and a more pleasant bus commuting experience. Tengah is currently served by seven bus services, including a City Direct Service.
Cycling paths have also been planned on both sides of the road, with segments along Tengah Boulevard already in use. The cycling paths will progressively be completed. The upcoming Jurong Region Line (JRL) will connect Tengah residents directly to key destinations in the west such as the Jurong Lake District, Nanyang Technological University, and other employment areas. JRL will also connect commuters to the rest of the rail network, with interchanges at Choa Chu Kang, Boon Lay and Jurong East. In the longer term, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is studying the feasibility of a new Tengah Line. More details will be announced after these studies are completed.
IMPOSING LIMITS TO CREDIT FACILITIES AND CHARGES BY PLATFORM OPERATORS TO PLATFORM WORKERS UNDER FINANCING PROGRAMME
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Law whether the Government is considering imposing a limit to credit facilities and capping the fees and effective interest rates charged by platform operators to platform workers under their financing programme.
Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: Under the current framework for the regulation of moneylenders in Singapore, a platform operator may lend money to its platform workers as an exempt moneylender under the Moneylenders Act. In order to be granted an exemption, the proposed lending must be assessed to have potential benefits to borrowers, such as providing an avenue of safe credit to meet a specific need, while also having sufficient safeguards in place to protect borrowers. GFin, a subsidiary of Grab, is the only platform operator currently permitted to lend money specifically to Grab’s platform workers under this exemption framework. The Government imposes on GFin various restrictions on lending, as conditions of the exemption, including limits on permitted fees and debt service ratios, which are generally more stringent than those applying to licensed moneylenders. There are also legislated limits on credit facilities, in particular caps on the loan quantum, for exempt moneylenders. Beyond these, GFin must additionally implement safeguards, such as an internal credit scoring system to assess the maximum loan a platform worker can take and various support initiatives for platform workers facing challenges in making repayments.
KPIS OF FUND MANAGERS UNDER MAS' EQUITY MARKET DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) what are the key performance indicators set for fund managers under MAS’s Equity Market Development Programme; (b) whether they include returns performance and the level of third-party capital that will be crowded in; and (c) what is the timeline over which their performance will be evaluated.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): The S$5 billion Equity Market Development Programme (EQDP) aims to strengthen the local fund management ecosystem and raise investor interest in Singapore public equities beyond large-cap stocks. EQDP is designed to support the long-term development of our asset management and local equities market.
Asset managers appointed under the EQDP have put forward investment strategies that have a strong focus in Singapore public equities, and can help broaden investor participation in quality small and mid-cap stocks. The appointed asset managers will be assessed regularly for at least three years against how well they have met commitments in three areas: (a) Ability to mobilise capital from other commercial investors into these strategies. This helps amplify the programme’s impact, by bringing in a larger pool of commercial capital into our equities market; (b) Ability to deliver investment returns. The investment performance of the selected strategies will be evaluated and compared against relevant equity market benchmarks periodically over different time horizons; (c) Ability to meet developmental commitments to deepen their presence in Singapore and contribute to the development of the equity market ecosystem. These include expanding their teams in Singapore and deepening research and investment capabilities, while actively participating in equity market initiatives. Managers are also expected to support talent development and capability building, which contributes to the growth and vibrancy of Singapore’s equities market.
The first three EQDP asset managers were appointed in July. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is on track to announce the second batch by the end of the year. Collectively, these managers bring different investment capabilities and strengths, and have proposed various commitments to contribute to developing our equities market. This will help broaden and deepen the ecosystem of market players and investors, and support sustained growth and liquidity in our equities market.
RESEARCH ON SOCIAL INTERACTIONS WITHIN NEIGHBOURHOODS WITH NEWER HDB TOWN DESIGNS
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Ministry has conducted research on the impact of the shift to newer HDB town designs, particularly with the changes to void deck designs, on the levels of social interaction in neighbourhoods; and (b) if so, whether the Ministry can share details of any findings.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: Former Member of Parliament Dr Tan Wu Meng had raised similar Parliamentary Questions in October 2017 and October 2020. The Housing and Development Board (HDB) conducts the Sample Household Survey every five years.
The last Survey published in 2021 found that 97% of residents felt that there were sufficient places in our HDB estates for neighbours to meet and interact. Most neighbourly interactions occurred in common spaces within the block, including community decks. The frequency of neighbourly interactions was similar across blocks of different ages, suggesting that newer block designs continue to be as effective in facilitating social interactions. Given the important role that HDB estates play in facilitating social interactions, HDB has, over time, introduced new design elements to achieve this objective. For example, since 2014, HDB has introduced Community Living Rooms with seating areas at community decks of HDB blocks for small, incidental gatherings. In newer HDB precincts, HDB also provides 3-Generation playgrounds that bring together children, adults and seniors, as well as precinct pavilions for larger social functions and community activities.
PROTOCOLS AND METRICS USED TO SYNCHRONISE HDB'S HOUSING PLANS WITH LTA'S TIMELINES FOR RAIL AND BUS NETWORK EXPANSION
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for National Development in the planning of new towns and HDB's BTO launches, what specific protocols and metrics are used to ensure HDB’s housing plans are synchronised with LTA’s timelines for rail and bus network expansion to prevent transport infrastructure from lagging behind population growth and the expansion of public housing supply.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: Singapore adopts an integrated approach to master planning and development to meet the near- and long-term needs of its residents. Major infrastructure such as roads, water, and telecommunications require a long gestation period to plan, design, and implement. Agencies hence start the process many years before construction begins and work together to ensure alignment in the planning and provision of infrastructure as we continue to meet the current and future needs of our residents. Our Housing and Development Board (HDB) towns are planned in tandem with transport infrastructure. Agencies work together on the staging of infrastructure and development plans within the town, and to the extent possible, to deliver these facilities and services in tandem with the completion of housing developments.
IMPACT OF COST INCREASES ON AIRLINES' OPERATIONS AT CHANGI AIRPORT
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Acting Minister for Transport in respect of the closure of Jetstar Asia operations at Changi Airport reportedly due to the high costs increases for its Singapore base (a) whether costs increases are a concern for airlines operating in Changi Airport; and (b) if so, whether any measures have been or will be taken to mitigate costs increases for airlines operating in Changi Airport.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) monitors the competitiveness of Changi Airport closely, including its connectivity, passenger experience and service levels, to ensure that Changi continues to be attractive to airlines and passengers. Aeronautical charges by the airport operator, Changi Airport Group (CAG), are regulated by CAAS to ensure that they remain competitive. Airlines globally face cost challenges, including fuel, manpower, and post- pandemic inflationary pressures, which are not unique to airlines at Changi Airport.
Notwithstanding this, the number of airlines operating at Changi Airport continues to grow. As of September 2025, about 100 airlines operate out of Changi Airport, including almost 20 Low-Cost Carriers, with the airport welcoming six new airlines over the last 12 months.
CAAS and CAG will continue to support airlines at Changi Airport as we have done over the years, with targeted rebates and incentives to encourage their growth at Changi.
EFFECTIVENESS OF SINGLE ROOM SHARED FACILITIES SCHEME IN SUPPORTING HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for National Development (a) what is the Ministry’s assessment of the effectiveness of the Single Room Shared Facilities Scheme (SRSF) in supporting homeless individuals compared to the Joint Singles Scheme Operator-Run Pilot; and (b) whether SRSF will be expanded to accommodate more applicants.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: The Single Room Shared Facilities (SRSF) and Joint Singles Scheme Operator-Run (JSS-OR) pilots are part of Housing and Development Board's (HDB) ongoing efforts to expand public rental options for lower-income singles, and both models have been useful in assisting individuals who are rough sleeping. Both the SRSF and JSS-OR have a social service agency appointed as an operator to manage the tenancies, mediate co-tenant issues, and ensure that tenants are supported by social services. Singles can apply for public rental under the SRSF or JSS-OR individually, without a flatmate. Each model is designed to cater to different needs and preferences. While SRSF tenants have their own bedroom and access to shared facilities, JSS-OR tenants share a 1- or 2-room flat with 1 or 2 other flatmates respectively. To date, both models have been well subscribed and feedback from the tenants and operators have been generally positive. HDB is reviewing these public rental typologies and will share more details, including any expansion plans, when ready.
SUPPORTING HOME HOSPICE SERVICES
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health given the rising demand for home hospice services (a) how is the Ministry assessing the financial resilience of current providers and planning for future cost escalations; (b) what long-term funding models are being considered to ensure the sustainability of these services; and (c) whether the Ministry will consider increasing direct grants to support charitable hospice providers.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Palliative care, including home hospice services, are strongly supported by Ministry of Health (MOH). MOH regularly reviews the operating costs of the services and adjusts our funding rates per patient accordingly. The latest round of funding increases was effected this year. Besides direct funding, we support the training and hiring of palliative care workers, and adoption of technology to improve productivity. To make the transition to home hospice care more seamless, public hospitals have developed a standardised compassionate discharge protocol, and MOH has implemented the Equipment Rental Scheme, a subsidised rental scheme for medical equipment. These measures are all part of the National Strategy for Palliative Care. As a result, the capacity of home hospice care has increased significantly from 2,400 to 3,000 over the past two years, and is targeted to reach 3,600 by end of this year. Total government funding to the sector will continue to grow over time, as costs and patient numbers rise.
TRADITIONAL ELECTION ADVERTISEMENT RULE CONTRAVENTION FOR GRASSROOTS ADVISERS' PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL FOR GE2025
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) whether promotional material with photos of grassroots advisers and their initiatives that are maintained during the 2025 General Elections campaign period contravenes rules on traditional election advertisements (TEA) if the grassroots advisers are also running as candidates; and (b) if no, why not.
Mr Chan Chun Sing (for the Prime Minister): Under the law, any posters, flags or banners that are displayed during the election period for the purpose of promoting or procuring the electoral success of a candidate or political party would constitute election advertising and would be required to comply with the election advertising rules. If a grassroots adviser (GRA) runs for election as a candidate, whether pre- existing displays that are maintained during the election period and bear his photograph constitute Traditional Election Advertising would depend on the context, intention and timing of the display. For instance, banners containing expressions that can be reasonably regarded as appealing for continued support from residents so that he/she can serve them as Member of Parliament, could constitute election advertising. If so, they would need to comply with election advertising rules for their continued display during the election period.
On the other hand, pre-existing banners that continue to be displayed during the election period and serve a purpose unrelated to elections are unlikely to constitute election advertising. This is because they can be reasonably regarded as not intended to promote or procure the electoral success of a political party or its candidates in connection with the election. Examples of such banners include “Welcome” banners depicting a group of GRAs with “Welcome to Our Town” text message or “Festive Greetings” banners that are typically displayed around the time of the festival.
ASSESSING ASEAN'S CAPACITY TO RESOLVE CONFLICTS WITHOUT EXTERNAL INTERVENTION
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) what is the Government's assessment of ASEAN’s capacity to resolve conflicts among members without external intervention; (b) what lessons has Singapore drawn from the recent Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire brokered by Malaysia; and (c) whether Singapore will propose establishing a permanent ASEAN-led body for mediation and dispute verification to strengthen autonomy and effectiveness.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan: Southeast Asia has occasionally experienced unrest and even conflicts throughout its history. The formation of ASEAN in 1967 and the journey of five original members to the current ten and soon to be 11, have helped shift conflictual relationships toward cooperative ones. By providing a platform for all ASEAN Member States to regularly engage each other, build habits of dialogue and consultation, and develop concrete areas of cooperation, while constructively anchoring key external partners and major powers, ASEAN has played a positive role in promoting peace and stability in our region. Should conflicts arise among ASEAN members, there are useful roles to be played by both ASEAN and the major external powers we engage regularly. This was indeed true in the case of the bilateral border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand. In July 2025, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, in his capacity as ASEAN Chair, acted swiftly to de-escalate tensions and broker a ceasefire agreement in a Special Meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and then-Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
The ceasefire was supported by the United States and China, both of which ASEAN engages regularly. Singapore welcomes and commends the efforts of the ASEAN Chair. We also welcome the positive outcomes of the Special Meeting of Cambodia-Thailand General Border Committee hosted by Cambodia on 10 September 2025. We should continue to encourage both sides to engage directly with each other. ASEAN has mechanisms for dispute settlement under the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC). The ASEAN Charter also provides a mechanism for its Member States to seek conciliation or mediation through the ASEAN Chair or Secretary-General. Such mechanisms operate on the principle of consensus and will require parties to agree on the most suitable avenue to address their dispute. Singapore does not have plans to propose an additional ASEAN mechanism.
ADDRESSING COST INCREASES RESULTING FROM NEW LIFT AND ESCALATOR LICENSING REGIME FOR LIFT AND ESCALATOR CERTIFICATION FIRMS
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for National Development in respect of the new licensing regime for lift and escalator certification firms from 2027 (a) how will the Ministry address the expected cost increases from Fixed Installation plan submissions, certifications, and annual inspections; and (b) what support will be provided to Town Councils to manage the impact on their budgets.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: To enhance lift safety, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) will implement a new licensing regime from 2027, which will require developers and building owners to engage licensed firms to certify lifts and escalators. This move leverages on the collective expertise and resources of firms and aligns with international practices. BCA is actively engaging qualified firms to obtain licensing. Having a sizable pool of licensed firms will help keep costs competitive for lift owners. The Government provides substantial funding to Town Councils to offset the costs of estate maintenance. Town Councils should factor any cost increases in their budgeting and manage their expenditure prudently.
PLANS TO TRIAL ON-ROAD CYCLING LANES IN MORE RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBOURHOODS
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) whether the Ministry has any plans to trial on-road cycling lanes in more residential neighbourhoods as successfully implemented in major cities like Paris at low cost; and (b) if not, why not.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: We have trialled and implemented on-road cycling lanes; they are located along Tanah Merah Coast Road full day and time-based along West Camp Road. When we plan for dedicated on-road cycling lanes, we need to look for locations where vehicular traffic is relatively low, and the roads are wide enough to devote a lane for cyclists. While financial considerations are not always key, the cost of impact and potential inconvenience on existing road and non-road users of amenities and facilities in the area must be carefully assessed and addressed. It will also be important that any potential new area to implement on-road cycling lanes is serving an existing critical mass of regular on-road cyclists. We will grow this network over time to cater for road cyclists who want dedicated lanes, but we have to be realistic that in land-scarce and high-density Singapore, there will be limits to how much we can do. Our focus is therefore to expand off-road cycling infrastructure, which is safer for cyclists as well as motorists. The Islandwide Cycling Network programme aims to expand the cycling path network in every Housing and Development Board (HDB) town, as well as connect towns to one another and to the city. The Islandwide Cycling Network will increase from 750km currently to around 1,300km by 2030. The 21.5km long North South Corridor will also provide a cycling trunk route to connect active mobility users from the Northern region to the city, and support longer distance commute.
RATIONALE FOR MAINTAINING DISTINCTIONS IN SUPPORT SCHEMES BETWEEN SINGLE-PARENT UNWED HOUSEHOLD AND MARRIED COUPLES
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for Social and Family Development in light of the goal to build a 'Singapore Made for All Families' (a) what is the policy rationale for maintaining distinctions in access to housing and housing grants, tax reliefs, and other support schemes between single-parent unwed households and married couples; and (b) how does the Ministry ensure that these distinctions do not inadvertently penalise children and compromise their developmental outcomes.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: The Working Mother's Child Relief and Parenthood Tax Rebate benefits are intended to support parenthood within marriage. As such, they are not extended to single unwed parents. Similarly, the majority of HDB's new flats are set aside for families, with priority for first-timer married couples and families with young children.
Nevertheless, we recognise the challenges that single unwed parents face in having to single handedly raise their children. Regardless of background and circumstances, we take a two-pronged approach to supporting single unwed parents. Firstly, benefits that support the growth and development of children are given to all citizen children, regardless of the marital status of their parents. These include subsidies for education, healthcare, childcare, infant care, the Migrant Domestic Worker Levy Concession, and the Child Development Account. Secondly, we provide targeted support to address their needs holistically. Single unwed parents who require additional support may approach Social Service Offices (SSOs) for financial assistance, and Family Service Centres (FSCs) for holistic case management and socio-emotional support.
Similarly, single unwed parents who require housing assistance can also approach the Housing and Development Board (HDB), which will assess each request holistically and exercise flexibility, where appropriate, to ensure that their children have a stable home to grow up in. For example, single unwed parents aged 21 and above may be allowed to buy up to a 3-room flat from HDB, or a resale flat. Those who cannot afford to buy a flat may be considered for public rental flats.
ADDRESSING BUSINESS IMPACT OF JETSTAR ASIA'S RELOCATION FROM CHANGI AIRPORT AND BETTER CONNECTIVITY BETWEEN TERMINAL 4 AND OTHER TERMINALS
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) what is the update on Changi Airport’s efforts to address the business impact of Jetstar Asia’s relocation from Changi Airport; and (b) whether there are plans to improve connectivity between Terminal 4 and other terminals in Changi Airport so as to improve its attractiveness among airlines vis-à-vis other terminals.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: Jetstar Asia ceased operations on 31 July 2025. Prior to its closure, Jetstar Asia accounted for about 3% of Changi’s passenger traffic. Since then, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and Changi Airport Group (CAG) have worked with other airlines to progressively enhance capacity on the affected routes. Three of the four routes previously operated solely by Jetstar Asia are already, or will soon be, served by other carriers. With growing passenger traffic at Changi Airport, CAG will be increasing the frequency of shuttle bus service between Terminal 4 and the other terminals from November 2025, as part of its continual efforts to enhance the passenger experience.
CRITERIA FOR “HEARTLAND MERCHANTS” TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CDC VOUCHERS SCHEME
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) whether the Government will publish current eligibility criteria for “heartland merchants” eligible to accept CDC vouchers; and (b) how many applications have been received from merchants to qualify as “heartland merchants” for 2024 to 2025; and (c) how many applications are accepted for the same period.
Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: Mr Speaker, I am answering in my capacity as the Minister charged with the responsibility for the People’s Association. The CDC Vouchers Scheme was first introduced in June 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic with two key objectives – (i) to help Singaporean households cope with the cost of living; and (ii) to support hawkers and heartland merchants. In line with the policy intent, our aim is to onboard hawkers and merchants in Housing and Development Board (HDB) heartlands, such as those in the NEA- managed centres and HDB heartlands, including shops which offer daily goods or services.
However, there are instances where few or no heartland merchants are found within or near residential areas. In such locations, we have onboarded, on a case-by- case basis, small businesses that provide goods and services needed by residents. Since October 2021, Community Development Council's (CDC) have been engaging hawkers and merchants in the heartlands and onboarding them onto the Scheme. CDCs also work closely with associations like the Federation of Merchants' Association, Singapore and Heartland Enterprise Centre Singapore as well as various merchant and hawker associations, to reach out to the merchants and hawkers. To date, we have onboarded over 23,000 hawkers and heartland merchants on the CDC Voucher scheme, including those who successfully appealed, and will continue to work closely with the earlier mentioned key partners to onboard eligible merchants in the heartland.
STATISTICS ON HDB ESTATES' ZEBRA CROSSINGS CONVERTED TO COURTESY CROSSINGS
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many zebra crossings in HDB estates have been converted to courtesy crossings in the last three years; (b) what is the policy rationale for converting a zebra crossing to a courtesy crossing; and (c) whether the Ministry is concerned that this trend may create confusion and compromise pedestrian safety.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: Between 2022 and 2024, HDB converted 37 zebra crossings to courtesy crossings in Housing and Development Board (HDB) estates.
HDB started implementing zebra crossings in HDB estates from 2007 onwards. Subsequently, we received feedback that some of the existing zebra crossings in HDB estates could affect the safety of pedestrians as it gave them a false sense of security when they crossed the road. Such crossings were typically in locations where the motorists did not have direct line of sight of the zebra crossings, such as those near right-angled turns. To ensure safety of residents, HDB has been converting some zebra crossings into courtesy crossings, complemented with other traffic calming measures such as road humps where feasible. Courtesy crossings encourage both pedestrians and motorists to exercise greater care – pedestrians are reminded to check their surroundings before crossing, and motorists are reminded to slow down.
ASSESSING RELEVANCE OF 2,000 KG WEIGHT LIMIT FOR SEASON PARKING OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for National Development in view of the increasing prevalence of larger and heavier commercial and passenger vehicles (a) whether HDB has assessed the continued relevance of the 2,000 kg weight limit for season parking for commercial vehicles only; and (b) if still relevant, whether HDB multi-storey car parks are able to withstand the higher vehicular weights.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: The Ministry responded to a similar Parliamentary question raised by the Member at the sitting in February 2021. Our assessment remains unchanged. In general, commercial vehicles with unladen weight exceeding 2,000 kg are not allowed to park in Housing and Development Board (HDB) residential car parks for safety reasons. Commercial vehicles can carry heavy loads, unlike passenger vehicles. When loaded, they may exceed the structural capacity that our HDB residential car parks were designed for. In addition, commercial vehicles tend to be physically larger and protrude from car lots, obstruct the view of other car park users, and block passengers in vehicles next to theirs from opening their doors. Commercial vehicles exceeding the weight limit may apply to HDB to park at HDB surface residential car parks, and HDB will consider this on a case-by-case basis. They can also park at commercial and industrial car parks, as well as purpose- built heavy vehicle parks. We note the increasing prevalence of electric commercial vehicles, which are heavier because of their batteries. The agencies are doing a review on how the structure of our carparks can be enhanced to allow such vehicles.
EXTENDING OPERATING HOURS OF JOHOR-SINGAPORE RAPID TRANSIT SYSTEM BEYOND 6.00 AM TO 12.00 AM
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) whether the Ministry can work with its Malaysian counterpart to consider extending the operating hours of the Johor-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) beyond 6am to 12am for the convenience of cross-border commuters; and (b) if not, why not.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: The operating hours of the RTS Link will be mutually agreed among both countries and the operator, RTS Operations Pte Ltd, based on ridership demand and operational constraints.
ENSURING COMMERCIAL RENT AFFORDABILITY FOR SME TENANTS AT JTC AND HDBS
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) what oversight ensures (i) commercial rents by landlords such as JTC and HDB remain affordable for SME tenants and (ii) that tenant-mix diversity by gross-floor-area includes a substantial share of SMEs or local brands; and (b) if not, how does the Government reconcile SME support with allowing purely commercial operations.
Mr Gan Kim Yong: JTC and HDB have frameworks in place to ensure that competitive rents are offered to tenants, including SMEs. JTC also monitors industrial rents closely to guide the release of new industrial land plots to meet the demand for industrial land and space. Industrial rents for JTC’s developments are currently at an average of ~10% below prevailing market rates. Similarly, commercial properties let out by HDB are generally priced below market rates, and 90% have not seen an increase in rents in the last five years. Both JTC and HDB offer staggered rent adjustments for eligible tenants that are renewing their leases, to help them manage increases in rentals. HDB also has schemes in place to support startups and social enterprises by providing rental discounts. Currently, the majority of JTC’s and HDB’s tenants are SMEs. JTC and HDB do not impose controls on tenant mix by business size or ownership. The Government will continue to support SMEs holistically through a comprehensive suite of measures, such as the Enterprise Financing Scheme, which supports businesses by sharing the risk on loans extended by Participating Financial Institutions. There are also schemes such as the Enterprise Development Grant and Productivity Solutions Grant to help businesses upgrade and improve their productivity.
UPDATING OFFICIAL RECORDS AND SCHOOL TEXTBOOKS IN LIGHT OF DECLASSIFIED SINGAPORE INDEPENDENCE DOCUMENTS
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) whether historical accounts in official records and school textbooks will be updated in light of recently declassified documents on Singapore’s independence from Malaysia; (b) if so, which are the historical accounts; (c) how will the Government ensure a more nuanced understanding of this period in the national narrative; and (d) whether a timeline for these updates can be provided.
Mrs Josephine Teo: The Member is likely referring to declassified documents cited in a recent CNA documentary, “Separation: Declassified – 100 Days That Created A Nation”. It is unclear what updates to historical accounts in official records and textbooks Mr Giam is seeking. The declassified materials he refers to are not new. The British and Australian documents were first disclosed in the early 1990s and have been available to scholars, journalists and others for close to 35 years now. Professor Albert Lau relied on these documents as well other source material in his definitive account of Separation, “A Moment Of Anguish: Singapore In Malaysia And The Politics Of Disengagement”, which first appeared in 1998. That same year, the first volume of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew’s memoir appeared, The Singapore Story. In this memoir, Mr Lee told a gripping account of the events leading up to Singapore’s independence. Beside the British, Australian and New Zealand documents that had already been declassified by then, Mr Lee relied on the recollections of his chief colleagues involved in the negotiations with Malaysia, in particular, Dr Goh Keng Swee and Mr E.W. Barker, his own oral history and contemporaneous notes. The very nature of historical accounts means that there are differing points of view. For example, Mr E.W. Barker had called Singapore’s independence a “negotiated Separation”. Keen students of history have access to these materials and can form their own nuanced views.
ENFORCEMENT OF TRADITIONAL ELECTION ADVERTISING RULE DURING 2025 GENERAL ELECTION
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) how many complaints were received on the contravention of traditional elections advertising (TEA) rules during the 2025 General Elections; (b) how many investigations of such complaints were conducted by the Elections Department; (c) how many rectification notifications were issued; and (d) how many election advertising were removed, each broken down by political party.
Mr Chan Chun Sing (for the Prime Minister): At the 2025 General Election (GE2025), the Elections Department (ELD) received 2,561 reports on possible contraventions of traditional election advertising (TEA) regulations. All the reports were investigated, of which only 1,840 reports required further follow-up as they appeared to be in breach of the TEA regulations. For 1,595 reports lodged with ELD between Writ Day and Cooling-off Day, notifications were sent to the relevant candidates and/or their election agents to rectify the breaches within three hours of the notification. ELD enforced against 100 reports (comprising 139 TEA) which were not rectified within the stipulated timeframe.
For the remaining 245 reports on Polling Day, no rectification notification was sent to the candidates and their election agents. ELD had assessed that it would not be appropriate to request candidates or election agents to follow up on the rectification by the start of polls, given the inclement weather that morning. Instead, ELD undertook on-site verification of the TEA, of which 36 reports (comprising 88 TEA) were found to be in breach of regulations, and proceeded to directly remove all 88 TEA. In total, 227 TEA were removed by ELD from Writ Day to Polling Day. Table 1 below shows the breakdown by political parties.
MAKING NATIONAL EARTH OBSERVATION DATA FROM SINGAPORE’S SATELLITES ACCESSIBLE TO SINGAPORE-BASED RESEARCHERS
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether the Government will consider making national Earth-observation data from Singapore's satellites readily accessible to Singapore- based researchers, similar to the 2008 Landsat free-data policy and the European Copernicus Programme; and (b) if not, why not.
Mr Gan Kim Yong: Earth-observation data from satellites jointly owned by the Singapore Government and ST Engineering can be obtained through commercial arrangements with ST Engineering. Singapore-based researchers can apply for research grants from Government agencies that will cover payments for access to Earth-observation data. This approach strikes a balance between data access and commercial discipline.
ROOFTOP SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION RATES ACROSS PROPERTY TYPES OVER PAST FIVE YEARS
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) what is the current proportion of (i) private landed residential (ii) non-landed residential (iii) commercial and (iv) industrial properties that have solar panel installations on its rooftops; and (b) in each of the last five years, what is the number and capacity of solar installations at such private properties.
Mr Gan Kim Yong: Currently, 6% of private residential properties have solar panel installations on their rooftops. The number and capacity of grid-connected solar installations on such properties have risen steadily over the past five years (see Table 1). The number and capacity of grid-connected solar installations deployed by private sector entities across public and private non-residential properties have also risen steadily over the past five years (see Table 2). Due to our current data collection methodology, we do not have data on the proportion of private non-residential properties that have solar installations.
AVERAGE CARBON TAX RATES AND IMPACT OF ALLOWANCES ON REDUCING CARBON EMISSIONS
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) in each of the last five years, what was the average carbon tax rate paid by taxable facilities; and (b) whether the Ministry can provide an explanation of how allowances provided to defray carbon tax in the last few years has supported reduction in carbon emissions at facilities that benefited from the allowances.
Mr Gan Kim Yong: We are still finalising the carbon tax collections for emissions year 2024. The average carbon tax rate payable by taxable facilities in each year from 2019 to 2023 was $5 per metric tonne of carbon dioxide. The provision of allowances only started in 2024. Companies which receive allowances must submit credible net-zero decarbonisation plans, which the Government reviews and holds them accountable to.
COMPLAINTS RESOLUTION AND REGULATORY ACTIONS AGAINST DEBT COLLECTION AGENCIES
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs since the commencement of the Debt Collection Act on 1 December 2023 (a) whether the Ministry has received complaints regarding the conduct or professionalism of debt collection agencies; (b) how such complaints are resolved; (c) whether any disciplinary action has been taken against these agencies for misconduct; and (d) how many of such agencies are engaged by public hospitals.
Mr K Shanmugam: Since the commencement of the Debt Collection Act on 1 December 2023, there were eight cases of unlicensed collection by debt collection companies and/or individual debt collectors.
Police have issued stern warnings, in lieu of prosecution, to three companies involved in unlicensed debt collection activities. Investigations are ongoing for the remaining cases. In general, Police do not track the customers of debt collection companies. But none of these eight cases involved debts owed to our public hospitals.
DATA ON VEHICLE FIRE INCIDENTS TO DATE AND ANALYSIS OF CAUSES
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) to date in 2025, what is the number of cases of vehicle fires including cases where the vehicle was stationary and not in operation; and (b) what are the causes of these fires.
Mr K Shanmugam: In the first eight months of 2025, there were 152 vehicle fires. The main causes were overheating of engine, electrical faults, and ignition spark due to impact during collision. The Singapore Civil Defence Force does not track whether the vehicle was stationary or in operation at the time of the fire.
PERCENTAGE OF SUPPORT DISBURSED UNDER EXISTING SCHEMES GOING TO MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES VERSUS MEDIUM ENTERPRISES
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information concerning the goal of accelerating AI adoption in SMEs (a) what percentage of support disbursed under existing schemes has gone to micro and small enterprises versus medium enterprises; and (b) what specific measures are being developed to ensure that these schemes are accessible to traditional, non-tech heartland businesses to prevent a widening digital divide among our local enterprises.
Mrs Josephine Teo: The Infocomm Media Development Authority’s (IMDA’s) CTO-as-a-Service platform provides SMEs access to various resources for AI adoption, including pre-approved AI-enabled solutions supported by grants such as the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG). With its simple application and approval processes, the PSG is designed to be accessible to small and micro enterprises. In 2024, almost 3,000 SMEs, including micro enterprises, adopted AI-enabled solutions. In addition, the Heartland Enterprise Centre Singapore (HECS) offers training programmes to equip heartland merchants with basic digital skills, including the use of common AI tools. For those keen on more advanced AI applications, HECS refers them to relevant partners.
STUDENTS IN LOCAL UNIVERSITIES OFFERED STRUCTURED INTERNSHIPS WHICH TRANSITIONED INTO FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Education (a) how many students in local universities have been offered structured internships in 2024 which transition into full-time employment; (b) what proportion of these offers come from the private versus public sector; and (c) whether the Ministry is working with the industry to expand pathways into first jobs from internships.
Mr Desmond Lee: The primary objective of internships is to provide students with on-the-job training that allows them to apply their learning in a real-world setting, and develop soft skills in the workplace, such as communicating and working with colleagues. Some companies may choose to offer an intern a full-time role at the end of the internship, if there are available full-time positions and they find the intern to be a good fit after having had the opportunity to assess the intern’s performance up- close. Based on the 2024 Joint Autonomous University Graduate Employment Survey (JAUGES), about 40% of graduates had received job offers from a company they had done an internship with, of which about 60% took up the offer. The Ministry of Education does not collect data on the internship companies that provided job offers to interns.
REFUND DEMANDS ON INELIGIBLE SELF-EMPLOYED PERSON INCOME RELIEF SCHEME RECIPIENTS
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Manpower (a) how many individuals received Self-Employed Person Income Relief Scheme (SIRS) payouts but were later deemed ineligible; (b) how many were asked only after 2023 to return the payouts; (c) where were the reasons for the delays in refund demands; and (d) whether the cash flow impact on affected individuals was considered when making these demands.
Dr Tan See Leng: The Self-Employed Person Income Relief Scheme (SIRS) was introduced in 2020 to help Singaporean Self-Employed Persons (SEPs) with less means and family support, and whose livelihoods were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. To provide timely assistance, eligibility was assessed based on applicants’ declarations (e.g. trade income, properties owned). Applicants whose declarations met the eligibility criteria received payouts.
Approximately 2,200 SIRS recipients, representing around 1% of all SIRS recipients, were subsequently found to be ineligible following comprehensive audits on SIRS applications. Time was taken to conduct thorough back-end checks to verify that individuals were ineligible. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has been progressively reaching out to ineligible SIRS recipients to refund their SIRS payout, as the various audit phases have been completed. To preserve the integrity of the scheme, MOM will seek recovery from all ineligible recipients, but will consider the circumstances of each individual on appeal.
NUMBER AND REASONS FOR REJECTED FLEXIBLE WORK ARRANGEMENT (FWA) REQUESTS SINCE DECEMBER 2024
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Minister for Manpower (a) how many Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA) requests have been rejected since December 2024; (b) what are the grounds for rejection; and (c) what is the number of complaints received on the improper handling of FWA requests.
Dr Tan See Leng: The Member may refer to the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 68 for the Sitting on 22 September 2025 for replies to part (a) and (b). For part (c), since the Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangement Requests (TG-FWAR) took effect in December 2024, the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) has received one complaint in July 2025, where the outcome of an (FWA) request was communicated verbally instead of in writing. TAFEP has worked with the company to revise its processes to be in line with the TG-FWAR. Employers who face challenges implementing the TG-FWAR, or employees who feel that their FWA requests are not properly considered, may approach TAFEP for assistance.
PLANS TO EDUCATE SEAFOOD SUPPLIERS AND CONSUMERS ON NEGATIVE IMPACT OF SELLING AND CONSUMING ENDANGERED STINGRAY SPECIES
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Government has any plans to further educate seafood suppliers and consumers on the negative impact of selling and consuming endangered stingray species such as the whitespotted whipray and sharpnose whipray; and (b) if not, why not.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: The National Parks Board (NParks) regulates the trade of species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Certain stingray species are listed under CITES, but the whitespotted whipray and sharpnose whipray are not. NParks works closely with stakeholders, such as nature groups, and the community to raise public awareness about conservation efforts for endangered species, and advises consumers to check the source of origin and species to ensure that they are not listed on CITES before consumption.
CRITERIA IN APPEALS FOR WAIVER OF MINIMUM OCCUPATION PERIOD FOR HDB FLAT SALES
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for National Development (a) what criteria are considered in appeals for waiver of the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) for HDB flat sales; and (b) whether the remaining MOP duration is among them.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats are primarily meant for owner-occupation. Owners are required to physically occupy their flat during the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) before they are allowed to sell their flat on the open market.
HDB assesses all appeals for a waiver of the MOP on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific circumstances of the flat owners and their families. Past reasons for such exceptions include financial hardship or the demise of the flat owner.
POLICY FRAMEWORK TO EVALUATE SUCCESS OF PULAU TEKONG POLDER PROJECT AND ITS SUITABILITY ASSESSMENT
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for National Development (a) what policy framework guides the evaluation of the success of the Pulau Tekong polder project; (b) how does that framework specifically assess the method’s suitability for high-density residential, commercial, and/or industrial uses on the mainland; and (c) how are long-term climate adaptation and maintenance costs being weighed against initial sand savings.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: The Pulau Tekong polder project created about 800 hectares of new land, whilst reaping close to 50 percent of savings in sand used for the reclamation, when compared to traditional land reclamation. The creation of new land for the Ministry of Defence’s use has freed up space on the mainland for other uses, such as developing new homes and amenities for Singaporeans. Within the polder, the coastal dike, network of drains and water pumping systems, as well as the stormwater collection pond will also support climate resilience to rising sea levels and more intense rainfall due to climate change. The coastal dike’s height can also be raised to adapt to future increase in sea levels, if required. While the land will be used for military training, it could also potentially support other uses, such as residential, commercial, or industrial uses. We are monitoring the maintenance costs of the polder, which will require some time to reach a steady state.
PROTOCOLS FOR BUS CAPTAINS ON SMOOTH BRAKING AND MOVING OFF WHEN PASSENGERS, ESPECIALLY ELDERLY AND PREGNANT, ARE STANDING AND MOVING ON BUSES
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) whether the Government has set down procedures to guide bus captains on smooth braking at stops when passengers are standing or moving towards the exit; (b) if yes, what are they; and (c) whether protocols require bus captains to wait for passengers, especially elderly and pregnant, who stand and move only after a complete stop, before driving off.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: Bus captains are trained and required to provide safe and smooth journeys. This includes avoiding harsh braking or acceleration. Bus operators have also equipped their vehicles with telematics systems to allow them to monitor and incentivise bus captains with good driving behaviour, and provide support to bus captains who require additional training. As a safety protocol, bus captains are required to look out and wait for vulnerable passengers, such as the elderly and pregnant, to be seated or to hold on firmly to a handrail, before driving off. However, bus captains need to also respond to road conditions, including the behaviours of other drivers. In some cases, bus captains have to step on the brakes to prevent road accidents. As they must focus on driving while the bus is moving, it is not always possible for them to spot passengers who stand up and move about between or before stops. We therefore urge all passengers, especially vulnerable passengers, to remain seated and refrain from moving about the bus until it comes to a stop.
POLICY ACTIONS AND PLANS TO ENSURE PRIORITY SEATING FOR ELDERLY AND DISABLED ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) whether the Ministry has considered more robust policy action, including legal stipulations, to ensure priority seating for the elderly and disabled on public transport; and (b) if not, what are the impediments.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: We should not crowd out gracious conduct by legislating for every desired behaviour. Besides the elderly and persons with disabilities, there are other commuters who may also need a seat due to invisible medical conditions, and it is not possible to legislate for every scenario. Our approach is instead to build a more caring commuter culture that supports a wide range of needs. Through the Caring SG Commuter Movement and publicity campaigns on gracious commuting behaviour, we have been encouraging commuters to offer their seats to those who need them more. In a 2024 survey conducted by the Public Transport Council, more than 70% of respondents with disabilities agreed that it was easier to get a seat on public transport compared to the year before. We will continue to build on this positive momentum.
ASSESSMENT ON LEASING FAST-FOOD BUSINESS AT YIO CHU KANG STADIUM TO PROMOTE HEALTHY LIVING
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) whether leasing a high-traffic site at Yio Chu Kang Stadium to a major fast-food business aligns with SportSG’s mission to promote healthy living; (b) what health and nutritional criteria guided the tenancy evaluation; and (c) what is the Ministry’s assessment of making fast-food a convenient post- exercise option at Yio Chu Kang Stadium.
Mr David Neo: ActiveSG Sport Centres play a key role in supporting Singaporeans to adopt healthy and active lifestyles. All food and beverage (F&B) tenants at ActiveSG Sport Centres, including fast- food businesses, must comply with the Whole-of-Government healthier F&B policy. They must provide beverages that are healthier (i.e. Nutri-Grade A or B) and use healthier oil and lower-sodium ingredients for all food preparation, or they may also be certified as Health Promotion Board’s Healthier Dining Programme Partner that uses healthier oil and provides healthier beverages and food such as dishes lower in calories, lower in sodium, and/or higher in wholegrains. Operators must meet these requirements before Sport Singapore (SportSG) leases these spaces to them. SportSG will continue to ensure that ActiveSG Sport Centres offer convenient dining options that meet health and nutritional requirements and support Singaporeans to stay active and live healthy.
